The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends inspecting all roofs twice each year, once after the hottest weather and again after the coldest weather. It is these weather cycles that induce the most thermal stresses on roofs and manifest the greatest damage. Roofs should also be inspected after any major weather event, such as high winds or hail. The inspection report should classify distresses as follows:

Damage caused by storms

Warranty repairs

Housekeeping and cleaning

Repairs to be paid for by owner

Routine maintenance should be performed regularly, thereby correcting deficiencies disclosed by the inspections. All maintenance and repair work orders and payments should be entered into the client’s database.

Edis T. Oliver, P.E., is a principal with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, and has 35 years experience in the roofing industry. He is past president of the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas and the Central Texas Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors.